December is a unique month in the world of gemstones, distinguished by its possession of four officially recognized birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones carries a distinct history, a set of gemological properties, and a symbolic significance that collectively make them ideal for both personal adornment and jewelry design. This article delves into the rich lore, geological formation, cultural symbolism, and practical considerations for each of these gemstones, drawing exclusively from the provided sources to offer a comprehensive and accurate guide.
Introduction
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with the months of the year has ancient origins, tracing back to Mesopotamia and later adopted by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Over time, this tradition evolved, and December came to be associated with four distinct gemstones: Turquoise, Zircon, and later, Blue Topaz and Tanzanite. These additions reflect both the evolving nature of the birthstone tradition and the commercial and geological factors that influence gemstone popularity.
The December birthstones are all characterized by their blue hues, a nod to the cool tones of winter and the calmness associated with the season. This shared color palette not only unites the stones visually but also symbolically, as blue is often associated with tranquility, clarity, and spiritual insight in many cultures.
History and Lore
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, with a history that spans millennia. It has been cherished by various ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, who used it in jewelry and amulets, and the Chinese, who carved it into intricate pieces over 3,000 years ago. Turquoise was also highly valued by Native American tribes, such as the Apache, who believed it could be found by following a rainbow to its end.
In ancient times, turquoise was thought to possess beneficial powers, such as guaranteeing health and good fortune. From the 13th century onward, it was believed to protect the wearer from falling, especially off horses, and would break into several pieces at the approach of disaster. Hindu mystics maintained that seeing a turquoise after beholding the new moon ensured fantastic wealth.
Zircon
Zircon is another ancient gemstone with a long history of use in jewelry and adornment. It was known to the ancient Egyptians and was often referred to as the "Cairngorm" or "hyacinth" in older texts. Zircon is notable for its brilliance and refractive index, which can rival that of diamonds in some varieties.
The addition of Zircon to the list of December birthstones occurred in 1952, when the Jewelry Industry Council of America updated the list to include it. This decision was influenced by both the gemstone’s historical significance and its desirable optical properties, making it a valuable addition to the December birthstone collection.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the most recent addition to the December birthstone list, having been officially recognized in 2002. This relatively new gemstone is unique in that it is found only in a specific region of Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Its discovery and subsequent rise in popularity reflect the dynamic nature of the gemstone industry, where new finds can quickly become staples of jewelry design.
Tanzanite is known for its rich violet-blue color, which can shift depending on the light. This pleochroism, or the ability to display different colors from different angles, is one of its most distinctive features. The gemstone is often associated with transformation and spiritual growth, making it a meaningful choice for those who resonate with these themes.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a more modern addition to the December birthstone list and is considered the most durable of the four. It is the hardest on the Mohs hardness scale, with a rating of 8. This durability makes it particularly suitable for everyday wear, especially in rings and pendants. Blue Topaz is mined in several locations around the world, including Sri Lanka, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States, where it is the official state gem of Texas.
The addition of Blue Topaz to the December birthstone list reflects the growing appreciation for new gemstone discoveries and the commercial appeal of durable, affordable options for jewelry. Its sky-blue to London blue colors are highly sought after, and its affordability has made it a popular choice for a wide range of jewelry pieces.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in arid environments, often in the oxidation zones of copper deposits. It is typically found in veins and nodules within rocks such as limestone and sandstone. The presence of impurities like iron and aluminum in the mineral matrix gives turquoise its characteristic blue to green color. The veins of matrix that often run through the stone are remnants of the rock in which it formed, adding to its unique appearance.
Major sources of turquoise include the United States (particularly Nevada and Arizona), Iran, and Egypt. These regions have been historically significant in the production and trade of turquoise, with each location producing stones with distinct color variations and matrix patterns.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that forms in a variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which can create a diamond-like sparkle in some varieties. Zircon can occur in a range of colors, including red, yellow, green, and blue, with the blue variety being particularly popular in jewelry.
The blue color of zircon is typically achieved through heat treatment, which alters the mineral's crystal structure and changes its color. This process is both common and stable, making blue zircon a reliable and popular gemstone. Major sources of zircon include Australia, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a rare blue variety of the mineral zoisite, and it is found exclusively in a narrow area of the Merelani Hills in Tanzania. The formation of tanzanite is closely tied to the geological conditions of this region, where the mineral is found in metamorphic rocks that have been subjected to specific heat and pressure conditions. These conditions are unique to the Merelani Hills, which is why tanzanite is so rare and valuable.
The discovery of tanzanite in the 1960s was a significant event in the gemstone industry. It was first identified as a new gemstone and quickly gained popularity due to its striking color and pleochroism. Today, tanzanite is primarily mined in Tanzania, and its exclusivity has contributed to its status as a highly sought-after gemstone.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a variety of the mineral topaz, which is a silicate of aluminum and fluorine. It forms in igneous rocks and is often found in pegmatites and rhyolites. The blue color of topaz is typically the result of irradiation and heat treatment, which alter the mineral's crystal structure and create the characteristic blue hues. These treatments are stable and widely accepted in the gemstone industry.
Major sources of blue topaz include Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States. In the U.S., blue topaz is particularly associated with the state of Texas, where it has been designated as the official state gem. The availability of blue topaz in these regions has contributed to its popularity as a durable and affordable gemstone.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. This softness means that it is more susceptible to scratches and damage, so it is often used in jewelry that is worn less frequently, such as necklaces and pendants. Turquoise is also porous and can absorb oils and other substances, so it requires careful cleaning and maintenance.
The color of turquoise can vary from a soft sky blue to a deep greenish-blue, depending on the presence of impurities such as copper and iron. The veins of matrix that run through the stone are a natural part of its formation and add to its unique character.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise but less durable than blue topaz. It is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which can create a brilliant sparkle in well-cut stones. Zircon is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors from different angles.
The blue color of zircon is typically achieved through heat treatment, which is a stable and accepted practice in the gemstone industry. Zircon can also occur in other colors, including red, yellow, and green, but the blue variety is the most popular in jewelry.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it moderately durable but not suitable for everyday wear in rings. It is known for its pleochroism, which allows it to display different colors—typically violet-blue and deep blue—depending on the angle of light. This property makes tanzanite a visually striking gemstone.
Tanzanite is also relatively sensitive to heat and chemicals, so it requires careful handling and cleaning. Its rarity and unique color have contributed to its high value, making it a desirable choice for special occasion jewelry.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the most durable December birthstones. This durability makes it suitable for everyday wear, especially in rings and pendants. Blue topaz is also resistant to scratches and abrasions, making it a practical choice for jewelry that is worn frequently.
The blue color of topaz is typically achieved through irradiation and heat treatment, which alter the mineral's crystal structure and create the characteristic blue hues. These treatments are stable and widely accepted in the gemstone industry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise
Turquoise has been associated with a wide range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties across different cultures. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to offer protection and good fortune. The pharaohs and other rulers adorned themselves with turquoise to symbolize their divine status and connection to the gods.
In Native American traditions, turquoise was considered a sacred stone that could bring protection and healing. The Apache believed that following a rainbow to its end would lead to the discovery of turquoise, which was thought to be a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
Turquoise is also associated with clarity and communication, making it a popular choice for those who seek to enhance their ability to express themselves clearly. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote calmness and inner peace.
Zircon
Zircon has been associated with wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune in various cultures. In ancient times, it was believed to bring clarity and insight to the wearer, making it a popular choice for scholars and thinkers. Zircon was also thought to promote a sense of balance and harmony, which is why it was often used in amulets and talismans.
In modern metaphysical practices, zircon is believed to enhance spiritual growth and intuition. It is also associated with prosperity and abundance, making it a popular choice for those who seek to attract wealth and success.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. Its pleochroism, or the ability to display different colors from different angles, is often interpreted as a symbol of change and adaptability. This makes tanzanite a popular choice for those who are undergoing significant life transitions or seeking to enhance their spiritual awareness.
Tanzanite is also believed to promote emotional healing and balance. It is often used in meditation and energy work to help release emotional blockages and promote a sense of inner peace. Its rarity and unique color make it a powerful symbol of individuality and personal growth.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is associated with clarity, communication, and calmness. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote mental clarity and emotional balance. Blue Topaz is also believed to enhance the ability to express oneself clearly and confidently, making it a popular choice for those who seek to improve their communication skills.
In modern metaphysical practices, Blue Topaz is also associated with protection and good fortune. It is believed to shield the wearer from negative energies and promote a sense of calm and serenity. Its durability and affordability make it a practical choice for everyday wear and use in spiritual practices.
Care and Cleaning
Turquoise
Due to its softness and porosity, turquoise requires careful handling and cleaning. It should be protected from exposure to harsh chemicals, oils, and moisture, which can cause it to fade or become discolored. To clean turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the stone.
Turquoise should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is best to store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from dust and abrasion.
Zircon
Zircon is more durable than turquoise but still requires careful handling. It is sensitive to heat and chemicals, so it should be protected from exposure to high temperatures and harsh cleaning agents. To clean zircon, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the stone.
Zircon should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is best to store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from dust and abrasion.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively sensitive to heat and chemicals, so it requires careful handling and cleaning. It should be protected from exposure to high temperatures and harsh cleaning agents. To clean tanzanite, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the stone.
Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is best to store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from dust and abrasion.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is the most durable of the December birthstones and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. It is resistant to scratches and abrasions, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, it should still be protected from exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
Blue Topaz can be cleaned using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, but it is best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is best to store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from dust and abrasion.
Conclusion
December is a unique month in the world of gemstones, as it is associated with four officially recognized birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones carries a distinct history, a set of gemological properties, and a symbolic significance that makes them ideal for both personal adornment and jewelry design.
Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones, has been cherished for millennia for its protective and healing properties. Zircon, with its brilliance and refractive index, is a valuable addition to the December birthstone list. Tanzanite, the rarest and most recent addition, is associated with transformation and spiritual growth. Blue Topaz, the most durable of the four, is a practical and affordable choice for everyday wear.
The expansion of December’s birthstones reflects the evolving nature of the birthstone tradition and the commercial and geological factors that influence gemstone popularity. Whether you are looking for a meaningful gift, a personal keepsake, or a piece of jewelry that reflects your individuality, the December birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection to choose from.